An Overview of Home Insurance: An Interview with Melissa Martin of Brown & Brown Insurance

Tell us a little bit about your company and its foundation.

Brown & Brown is your local agency with national power. We are currently the top provider with many of our insurance carriers in the State of New Mexico. With access to a large number of insurance carriers and brokers, we have the ability to offer our customers a variety of options and work together providing personalized service. We are the 7th largest insurance intermediary in the US with over 70 years of experience. Our New Mexico team with locations in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos is experienced and looks forward to helping others review and determine their insurance needs at a competitive price.

What are some of the services your company provides?

• Business Insurance
• Personal and Health Insurance
• Life Insurance

In general, what is homeowners insurance supposed to provide for a homeowner?

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection against disasters and sudden and accidental losses.

What are some of the different types of policies available? Are these policies mostly based on income level?

There are many different types of homeowner policies, it varies by the carrier and what the needs of the insureds are. Homeowners insurance is not based on income.

What does the average home insurance policy typically cover?

Most standard homeowners policies cover limits for your dwelling, other structures, personal property, loss of use and personal liability.

Do most insurance companies require home inspections? What different type of home inspections are there?

In many cases, insurance carriers will complete inspections at the inception of the policy but they can also inspect at the policy renewal or after a claim.

What are some factors that influence the rate on my home insurance policy?

There are many factors that could influence the insured's rate, such as location, age of home, updates on the roof, electrical, heating and plumbing, insurance scores, claims history etc.

What are my options if I want to cancel my home insurance policy?

If the insured would like to cancel their policy, they would need to sign a cancellation request in a timely manner to be processed by the insurance carrier.

What are some common claim concerns that may arise with my policy?

A misconception that may arise is that maintenance is covered under a home policy. Clients may also be unaware that there are internal limits of coverage on items such as theft of jewelry, firearms, fine arts, collectibles, etc.

Do you have any other tips when it comes to choosing an insurance policy?

Go with a company that can explain coverages available, and takes the time to determine the full scope of coverage needed on an individual basis. Fast, inexpensive quotes can mean fast denial of coverages at claim time.

What is the best way for people to get in contact with you or your company?

They can call us directly at 505-821-5888, fill out an application on our website www.bbnm.com or email us at info@bbnm.com